If you’re in the process of relocating to Canada, you might find yourself facing a daunting visa application process with numerous uncertainties. Many individuals opt to engage the services of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) to navigate these complexities effectively. In this blog post, we will delve into the roles that a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant plays and explore essential considerations if you decide to seek their assistance.

Understanding RCICs role

Immigration Consultants serve as valuable sources of immigration advice and support. In Canada, these experts are officially registered with The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC/ The College), which operates under the Government of Canada’s jurisdiction. The College licenses and regulates Canadian immigration and citizenship consultants in the public interest. As a regulatory authority, it establishes and enforces the standards that RCICs must adhere to, holding them accountable for maintaining these standards.

While it isn’t mandatory to collaborate with an RCIC when applying for a Canadian visa, you can go through the following pros and cons to decide for yourself.

RCICs offer the following services:

• Thoroughly complete your visa application.
• Guide navigating the intricacies of the visa application process.
• Efficiently prepare all the necessary documentation.
• Establish communication with relevant government departments on your behalf.

To locate a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, you can explore the CICC website¹. Whether the RCIC is in your home country or based in Canada, you can meet them virtually to discuss your case.

Image source².

Advantages of Opting for a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant

Now that you’re acquainted with the role of an RCIC, let’s delve into the various advantages of enlisting their professional assistance:

Expertise

For many applicants, the prospect of tackling a visa application independently can be overwhelming. RCICs possess specialized expertise in their field. They stay abreast of the latest developments in Canadian immigration law and have assisted other individuals with their visa applications. Furthermore, RCICs are bound by the Code of Professional Conduct, obligating them to act in your best interest. This means you can count on receiving professional immigration advice throughout the entire visa application process.

Streamlined Process

RCICs possess in-depth knowledge regarding the required documents and the most effective methods for their preparation. According to ICCRC, submitting a well-prepared application can expedite the visa decision-making process. Additionally, having an RCIC act as your representative in dealings with the Canadian government can save you substantial time, especially when addressing changes in your circumstances or processing delays.

Language Support

Even if you possess proficiency in the English language, grappling with immigration paperwork can still prove challenging. One of the admission requirements for the Queen’s university GDipICL program³ is to acheive an english language bar.

IELTS (Academic)	minimum overall score 7.0 with at least 7.0 for each component
TOEFL-PBT	Paper-based test minimum overall score of 607
TOEFLiBT	Internet-based test minimum overall score of 101 with a minimum score in each component test as follows:  Writing test: 25/30  Speaking test: 25/30  Reading test: 25/30  Listening test: 26/30
CAEL CE (Canadian Academic English Language Test – Computer Edition)	minimum overall score of 70, with at least 70 for each component

Collaborating with an RCIC can prove incredibly beneficial in ensuring the accurate completion of your application.

Challenges in Employing RCIC Services

While the advantages are evident, it’s essential to consider several factors before opting for the services of an RCIC:

Cost

Engaging the services of an RCIC can be relatively expensive, especially when you compare it with a DIY application. Each RCIC sets its own pricing structure, typically influenced by factors such as the type of visa being sought, the level of assistance required, and their level of experience.

No Guarantee of Success

It’s crucial to bear in mind that hiring an RCIC does not guarantee the successful approval of your visa application. Numerous factors influence the outcome of a visa application, and only the IRCC has the authority to make a decision on your file. No Regulated Immigration consultant would or should provide any guarantee.

Beware of Unregistered Agents

Beware of individuals masquerading as registered agents, as this can lead to instances of immigration fraud. Unregistered agents may lack a sound understanding of immigration law, potentially offering incorrect advice or mishandling critical documents.

Find out if your representative is authorized by visiting IRCC website⁴.

• Citizenship or immigration consultants must be a member of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants.
• Lawyers or notaries must be a member of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society, or the Chambre des notaires du Québec.
• Paralegals (Ontario only) must be members of the Law Society of Ontario

In conclusion, conducting comprehensive research is imperative before committing to hiring an RCIC. Evaluate whether you feel confident in your ability to complete the application independently, have the necessary time for thorough preparation, and seek recommendations from your acquaintances if you decide to pursue the assistance of an RCIC.

Made up your mind? Contact me to explore your immigration options.

1. The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants> Find an Immigration Consultant <https://college-ic.ca/protecting-the-public/find-an-immigration-consultant> ↩︎
2. Pexels> Kampus <https://www.pexels.com/@kampus/> ↩︎
3. Queen’s University> GDipICL> Admissions <https://immigrationdiploma.queenslaw.ca/admissions> ↩︎
4. IRCC> Find out if your representative is authorized <https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigration-citizenship-representative/choose/authorized.html? ↩︎